Why I am a "Progressive"

Posted
Tuesday, June 12, 2018 12:00 am

Being a Progressive is not being a part of a political party or a movement. Being a Progressive is an idea. An idea that demands fairness and equality for all.

The advancement of the human condition should be the goal of every Politician in office. Whether Democrat or Republican, the quality of life, social and economic mobility, and the overall character of humanity as a whole should be the "be all end all."

Whether you identify as a Liberal or Conservative, a progressive voter seeks progress. Sounds simple, but unfortunately most politicians make it sound complicated. One can be socially progressive yet economically conservative. In the past you have had both Democrat and Republican candidates identity as a "Progressives"

Simply put, progress is evolution. I believe there are four pillars that truly express these ideals: freedom, opportunity, responsibility and cooperation. These are essential for the progressive society and should be the aspiration of every individual regardless of party designation.

If it is the belief that our government exist to strengthen the individual, then we as progressives seek economic fulfillment for all people with a fair and decent wage.

Not special privileges but self-evident truths. A fair share for all that includes freedom of speech, religion, basic physical securities, privacy and the value of human independence.

The freedom from and the freedom to; progressives believe in the unalienable rights not only that we are all created equal, but the assurance, no matter your status in society, that each individual is afforded proper healthcare, education, and the opportunity to retire with economic freedom. These freedoms need to coexist within an open and transparent governance process so that the voice of the individual is heard and government continues to work for every individual.

An important element in being a progressive is active participation. Participation not only political but socially in our community. We have a personal responsibility to ourselves as well as a responsibility to the public. The common good includes the People's involvement. Freedom without participation and cooperation causes a divided society that cannot work together.We need to be open minded and to be accountable to others. Being a progressive does not mean being right, but doing right by each individual in our society. The perception of a progressive has been attacked by those who do not believe in our core beliefs. With that said, I ask the voters to answer themselves this question before the upcoming election:

Has your government fulfilled its obligation to its citizens? Your answer will justify your vote. It has justified my belief to demand progress in our government, and it is why I look to join county government in order to enact meaningful change for individuals in our county and beyond